Specimen planting — Cortaderia selloana (Schult. & Schult. f.) Asch. & Graebn.

When placed as a specimen, Cortaderia selloana forms an expressive focal point owing to flower stalks reaching up to 3 meters in height and a dynamic foliage texture that creates an effect of movement in the wind. The plant requires an open space where it can be viewed from all sides; however, due to the sharp serrations on the leaves, it should not be planted near paths and recreation areas.

Unlike woody specimens, Cortaderia forms a rapidly spreading clump, the visual boundaries of which require control on an open lawn. Maintenance of such a specimen includes specific annual radical pruning down to 30 cm above ground level in late winter or early spring to preserve the decorative quality of the form.